HOCKEY
India U-18 men’s and women’s hockey teams to play series against Australia
The Indian men’s and women’s U-18 hockey teams will each take on their Australian counterparts in a four-match series from May 15 to 20 in Bhopal as part of the Asia Cup preparations.
The exposure series that follows the U-18 National Coaching Camp, which began at SAI Bhopal on April 19, will serve as vital preparation for the U-18 Asia Cup in Kakamigahara, Japan, beginning later this month.
Men’s coach Sardar Singh highlighted the progress made during the camp and the importance of the upcoming matches.
“A key focus during this camp has been to strengthen their fundamentals and basics across all positions, so they are better prepared for the demands of modern hockey and can steadily progress towards the senior level.The upcoming exposure matches against Australia’s U18 teams are an important step in our preparation.
“It’s a valuable opportunity for the group to experience high-quality international competition, test combinations, and build match temperament. With the U18 Asia Cup on the horizon, these fixtures will play a key role in helping us identify the best possible squad to represent India,” said Sardar.
Women’s coach Rani Rampal echoed a similar sentiment.
“The matches against Australia’s U-18 team will give them a great chance to play at a higher level and prepare for the U-18 Asia Cup. It’s an opportunity for each player to showcase their ability and what they have learned,” said Rampal.
-PTI
WEIGHTLIFTING
Yash Khandagale claims World Jr. medals
Yash Khandagale totalled 309kg to finish overall second and take the silver medal in the men’s 71kg category at the World junior weightlifting championships in Ismailia, Egypt.
Competing in Group ‘B,’ Khandagale lifted 140kg in snatch and 169kg in clean and jerk to secure a silver and a bronze in respective segments. His aggregate placed him behind gold medal winner Philippines’ Albert Ian Delos Santos (326kg).
Ecuador’s Jimmy Lopez (301kg) bagged the bronze.
-Team Sportstar
Published on May 05, 2026